Plan for health needs, have a great vacation

Even if you have a chronic health issue, with advanced planning, you can enjoy your getaway vacation.

Before you go, speak with your doctor about your health concerns. Update your medical history and emergency contact information and make a list of medications to take with you. Plan your vacation while keeping your limitations in mind. Climbing a mountain or water skiing might be too strenuous, but a helicopter tour over the mountain or a ride in a speedboat will afford you the same view without the stress on your body.

Review your health insurance policy and know the procedure to obtain medical coverage for treatment of an illness while away from home, including hospitalization and medical evacuation. If your condition tends to be unstable, you might want to consider trip cancellation insurance.

Choose appropriate accommodations for your needs. Ask for rooms conveniently located near the elevator, lobby or pool. Many hotels offer handicapped-accessible rooms. Some possible accommodations include rooms with walk-in showers, lowered vanities, adapted switches, grab bars and adaptations for those with visual and hearing impairments. Request a refrigerator to store medications.

I know it's easier said than done, but pack light. Pick lightweight luggage with wheels or wide straps that can be placed across your chest to distribute the weight evenly. Bring fanny packs or backpacks to carry essentials on day trips.

If you are flying, be aware of pre-screening rules and what you are allowed to take on the plane. The Transportation Security Administration's Web site – tsa.gov – lists specifics for almost every type of special need.

When you get to the security checkpoint, be sure to inform the screener of any disabilities you may have – such as the inability to walk through detectors, raise arms, remove shoes or lift carry-on luggage onto the belt – and they will help you.

If you use a wheelchair, you will be allowed to remain in your chair through the screening. I recommend you bring medical documentation clearly describing any conditions you have to present to the security officers if needed.

Use the following health organizing tips to enhance your summer vacation:

If you have arthritic joint limitations, when renting a car, ask for upgrades that lessen the strain on your joints, including power steering, power doors and windows, cruise control and multi-position power seats.

If you are diabetic, you might need to test your blood sugar more frequently if your activities are increased. If you are traveling across time zones, you should discuss potential medication schedule changes with your health care team.

Pack more than enough medications to last you through your trip (three to four days extra) and carry them in their originally labeled containers.

Before a trip, heart patients should have a thorough physical to assess their cardiac status. Travel with a copy of your most recent electrocardiogram and no scuba diving!

If you are a cancer patient, talk to your doctor about adjusting your treatment schedule to work around your vacation.

access-able.com/ is a comprehensive Web site for travelers with special needs that provides information on destinations throughout the world. If you love cruising, there is a section that gives very specific details about rooms (by cabin number) and the amenities on the ship.